Nikko Nationalpark Kawamata Onsen KURA
8,3/10 Excellent - Based on 3 reviews
Nikko Nationalpark Kawamata Onsen KURA sits within the forested valley of Nikko National Park, offering simple, traditionally styled rooms that open onto river or mountain views. Rooms include air conditioning, electric kettle, wardrobe and secure in-room safe, and the property provides complimentary Wi‑Fi; some rooms feature balconies or views over the stream. Operated as a small ryokan with onsen Tochigi, the house emphasizes seasonal local cuisine served in its restaurant and attentive, English‑speaking staff for guest arrangements.
The bathing facilities centre on scenic outdoor baths and a public hot‑spring pool fed by local mineral water, with separate bathing areas and rotens (open‑air tubs) set above the canyon. The spa layout is framed to make the most of the Kinugawa gorge and the surrounding forest, so bathing pairs well with spring greenery and autumn colours; towels and basic toiletries are provided. Onsite amenities include a restaurant serving à‑la‑carte and Asian breakfasts, a small bar, and free private parking for self‑drive guests.
Practical notes for visitors: check‑in is typically between 15:00 and 17:30 with check‑out until 10:00, and the ryokan asks guests to confirm estimated arrival times in advance; some stays require a bank transfer prior to arrival. The property offers simple on‑site activities such as fishing and a foot‑bath area and makes a convenient base for exploring nearby waterfalls, lakes and hiking trails within Nikko National Park. Its scale and setting suit travellers seeking a quiet, nature‑focused stay in Tochigi centred on hot‑spring bathing.
Highlights of this ryokan
Detailed Ratings
Points of interest nearby
Review summary for: Nikko Nationalpark Kawamata On…
Positive Reviews
Beautiful outdoor onsen and excellent bathing experience
Multiple guests praised the outdoor onsen as exceptionally beautiful and described the overall onsen experience as a highlight of their stay.
Delicious meals (breakfast and dinner)
Reviewers specifically complimented the food, calling dinners and breakfasts great or superb, and noting high quality of the meals provided.
Attentive, friendly staff
Staff were repeatedly described as attentive, super friendly and helpful, contributing positively to the stay.
Comfortable rooms
Guests found the rooms comfortable, with at least one review calling the room very comfortable and suitable for a relaxing stay.
Scenic, nature‑nestled location and seasonal views
The ryokan's natural setting — including autumn leaves and being nestled in nature — was highlighted as a major positive and added to the experience.
Negative Reviews
Onsen access and dressing‑room amenities issues
Some guests reported that onsen accessibility was not easy and that the dressing‑room amenities were not well stocked, implying room for improvement in facilities and access.
Remote location and transport inconvenience
Several reviewers noted the property is far from other areas; they relied on a shuttle to arrive and faced a long bus ride back to the station, making access by public transport inconvenient.
Atmosphere could be livelier
One guest suggested the atmosphere lacked liveliness and that a livelier guest area (light music or drinks) would improve the experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Check-in usually starts at 15:00 and check-out is by 10:00. Please inform the ryokan in advance if your arrival time differs.
Take a Tobu or JR route toward Kinugawa Onsen Station, then a Nikko City Bus or car; travel time from Tokyo area is about 1.5–3 hours depending on route. From major airports, travel by train to the Kinugawa area and continue by bus or car.
A Nikko City Bus from Kinugawa Onsen stops at the ryokan (limited departures daily). A complimentary pick-up from Kinugawa Onsen may be available by reservation—confirm with the ryokan before arrival.
Room capacities vary; many rooms are designed for two while some accommodate families—check each room’s capacity when booking. Children of any age are accepted, but children aged 12 and over are treated as adults and extra beds or cribs are not available.
The property has source-flowing hot springs with high metasilicic acid and five outdoor baths (three unisex plus separate men’s and women’s baths). The water is used naturally without added heating, dilution, or circulation.
In-room private onsens are not standard; the facility’s outdoor baths are communal. Guests should contact the ryokan directly to inquire about any private-bath rental options.
Pets are not permitted on the property.
The on-site restaurant serves kaiseki and seasonal Tochigi dishes, with breakfast offered. The kitchen can usually accommodate dietary requests if notified in advance.
Yes—guests can expect a traditional ryokan experience with riverside views, seasonal local cuisine, and source hot springs. The ryokan provides English-language information and staff assistance.
The ryokan sits in Nikko National Park near Setoai-kyo canyon, a local geyser, and is within about 1–1.5 hours’ drive of central Nikko sights like Toshogu and Lake Chuzenji. The valley is remote with limited shops; it’s best to buy supplies or stop at Kinugawa Onsen before arriving.